Beverly Cleary

Born: April 12, 1916 in Oregon

Died: 2021

Successful American children’s book author of Henry Higgins, The Mouse & the Motorcycle & Ramona the Pest.

Her birthday is recognized as D.E.A.R. (Drop Everything And Read) Day.

Was assigned to a ‘low reading circle’ as a child, which taught her to better understand issues of struggling readers.

As a librarian, was inspired to write for boys who came in but didn’t read.

Named a U.S. Library of Congress Living Legend in 2000.

“I hope children will be happy with the books I’ve written, and go on to be readers all of their lives.”